Keratoconus, crosslinking, and the changing treatment model

Atlanta-Keratoconus is perceived as having a small public health impact. With an estimated prevalence of ≥1/2000-considerably higher in certain parts of the world-that may be understandable. But besides the mechanical trauma caused by this condition, patients are also stressed by the cumulative burden of visual, physical, and psychological frustration, according to Clark Y. Chang, OD, MSA, MSc, FAAO.            

The onset is typically in the first or second decade of life, yet the burden from lost productivity, economic hardship, and other factors may be similar to that experienced by much older patients diagnosed with advanced age-related macular degeneration.          

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“Keratoconus does prevent people from living out their lives while they are at a very impressionable stage of their lives,” says Dr. Chang, director, specialty contact lenses, Center for Keratoconus, Cornea and Laser Institute, Hersh Vision Group, Teaneck, NJ. “If we can detect patients with this disease earlier and provide them with an explanation, even if we don't suggest any type of surgical invention but just give them an understanding of what may come in the future for them, it’s something that will make them feel a lot better and more comfortable. Then they’ll be more compliant with your suggestions; and secondly, they’ll know to come to you if they feel like something has changed.”

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